Losing a loved one in a workplace accident

When we leave the house for work, we expect to return at the end of the day. But what if that doesn’t happen?

Unfortunately, workplace accidents happen every day. Some of these accidents are even fatal.

It can happen in any industry

Loggers, roofers and those in the commercial hunting and fishing industry have the highest rate of workplace fatalities. However, workplace accidents can occur anywhere, and any one of those can result in death.

A wave of emotions, such as shock, anger and profound sadness, follows losing a loved one in a workplace tragedy. The emotional turmoil is compounded by financial uncertainty. If the deceased family member was the primary breadwinner, their unexpected absence can lead to immediate stress as bills begin to pile up.

Workers’ compensation is a safety net for employees and their families in the event of work-related injuries or fatalities. It provides benefits to help alleviate some of the financial burdens during such a difficult time, such as:

• Death benefits cover funeral expenses and provide ongoing financial support to the family. The payments are dependent upon the amount of children the deceased had and continue until the child reaches 18. If the child has special needs, the payments will continue throughout the child’s life.

• Workers’ comp will also cover any medical expenses incurred before the employee’s passing.

Filing a claim can often be the last thing on a grieving family’s mind, yet it’s an essential step in securing financial stability. Unfortunately, families may encounter several challenges, such as:

• Claims may be delayed or denied, requiring families to navigate appeals.

• Understanding the legalities and requirements of the claims process can be daunting.

If you have lost a loved one in a workplace accident, you don’t need to go through the workers’ comp claim process on your own. There are resources available that can help you navigate the system, allowing you to grieve your loss, knowing that financial assistance is on the way.